Queer fairy tale retellings have emerged as a pivotal genre for readers who previously felt excluded by traditional narratives. While classic stories often lacked representation, modern authors are transforming heteronormative myths into fresh and exciting experiences. To celebrate Adult Fairy Tales Week, a selection of ten standout reads has been compiled, spanning genres from young adult romance to spine-chilling horror.
Marie Sexton's 2012 novella Cinder offers a campy yet sharp twist on Cinderella. The story follows Eldon Cinder, who seeks to see his friend Prince Xavier at the royal ball despite being barred because only women are invited to dance. With the help of a local witch, Eldon achieves his wish with significant consequences, resulting in a fast-paced narrative that balances humor with emotional depth.
For those seeking variety, Unburied Fables (2016) by Creative Aces Publishing presents an anthology featuring works from students and seasoned professionals. The collection reimagines classics like Beauty and the Beast alongside lesser-known non-Western tales. The stories range from polyamorous twists to aromantic protagonists who reject the fairy tale premise entirely, offering something for every reader despite varying quality levels.
Isabel Greenberg's 2016 graphic novel, The 100 Nights of Hero, provides a sapphire and feminist reimagining of The Arabian Nights. The plot centers on Cherry, a noblewoman wagered by her husband Jerome to his friend Manfred. Cherry's maid and lover, Hero, uses epic tales of love and betrayal to keep Manfred at bay. Greenberg's vivid art and darkly humorous narrative create a brilliant story that oscillates between laughter and melancholy.
Elizabeth Wambhein's 2017 novel More Than Enough takes a unique approach to Beauty and the Beast by focusing on Petra, a gardener at the manor of Prince Fier. Rather than a traditional romance, the story explores whether the beast-like noble is truly gone and what that means for his relationship with Petra. The result is a complex and sweetly innovative unpacking of the original tale.
Austin Chant's 2017 short read Peter Darling reimagines Peter Pan through the lens of queer identity. After ten years living in the real world as Wendy Darling, Peter returns to Neverland, grappling with his role as the leader of the Lost Boys. The story retains the magic of the original while exploring a romantic connection between Peter and his rival, Captain Hook.
Trung Le Nguyen's 2020 graphic novel debut, The Magic Fish, blends elements of Cinderella and The Little Mermaid to bridge communication gaps between Tien, a young boy, and his Vietnamese immigrant parents. Through shared fairy tales, the family improves their English and strengthens their bond. The narrative addresses queerness and cultural clashes with empathy, making it suitable for both children and teens.
Kalynn Bayron's 2020 novel Cinderella Is Dead offers a dystopian horror take on the classic romance. Set 200 years after the original tale, the story follows 16-year-old Sophie in a world where women must be wed at the annual King's Ball or disappear forever. Bayron weaves a fast-paced fantasy that tackles homophobia, misogyny, and racism, resembling a queer version of The Hunger Games.
Heather Walter's 2021 novel Malice subverts Sleeping Beauty by having Princess Aurora fall for Alyce, the sorceress who cursed her. The story focuses on redeeming Alyce rather than leaning into her villainy, delivering strong enemies-to-lovers vibes. Readers interested in more can explore the sequel, Misrule, which continues the dark and gripping duology.
Laura Pohl's 2021 novel The Grimrose Girls combines dark academia with queer fairy tale protagonists inspired by Beauty and the Beast and Snow White. The story follows young women at Grimrose Académie who become the center of attention after their friend Ariane dies. As they investigate her death, they uncover complex truths about themselves in a gritty yet fantastical narrative filled with diverse characters and intriguing twists.
Sources: Polygon.